This DTC indicates the airbag control unit (SRS ECU) detects a communication loss or abnormal signal from the passenger airbag cutoff switch (PAD switch) — Seal 6 EV
This DTC indicates the airbag control unit (SRS ECU) detects a communication loss or abnormal signal from the passenger airbag cutoff switch (PAD switch).
Typically located on the right side of the center console or inside the glovebox, this switch manually controls the front passenger airbag activation/deactivation status (e.g., when installing a child safety seat).
The ECU triggers DTC B1680 if it fails to detect a valid resistance signal within a set cycle (normal operation uses different resistance values to distinguish ON/OFF positions, such as 2.2kΩ/4.7kΩ) or detects an open circuit (infinite resistance).
This fault causes: 1) the front passenger airbag status to enter an unknown mode, where the system may default to disabling the airbag to prevent unintended deployment, reducing crash protection; 2) the instrument panel airbag warning light to illuminate continuously; 3) some models to record abnormal crash event readiness data, affecting accident liability determination.
- 1Switch connector loose or disconnected: Commonly occurs after removing or installing the dashboard, replacing the cabin air filter, repairing the center console, or retrofitting a large display. This happens when technicians fail to securely reconnect the PAD switch plug, or a broken locking tab causes a poor connection.
- 2PAD switch assembly internal fault: Internal carbon film resistor wear, contact oxidation or sulfidation, or spring plate fatigue causes output resistance to fall outside the ECU recognition range (typically ±5% tolerance), especially on vehicles operating in high-humidity areas.
- 3Wiring harness open or short circuit: Sharp frame edges wear the internal dashboard wiring harness, rodents chew it, or accident repairs crush it, causing the signal wire (usually the yellow harness) to open or short to ground.
- 4Mechanical binding at the switch mounting location: The switch fails to clip fully into the mounting base, preventing the internal sliding contact from seating properly, or a deformed mounting base tilts the switch, causing poor connector contact.
- 5SRS ECU sampling circuit fault: Damaged ECU internal pull-up resistor or A/D converter causing the ECU to misjudge the switch open-circuit status, or lost software calibration data (less common, usually accompanied by other SRS fault codes).
- 1Diagnostic tool deep scan: Use VDS2000 or a dedicated BYD diagnostic tool to read B1680 freeze frame data. Confirm the fault frequency (intermittent/continuous), ambient temperature, and voltage at the time of occurrence. Check for accompanying SRS communication fault codes.
- 2Physical connection check: Locate the PAD switch (Song MAX/Yuan EV: usually right side of glovebox; Tang/Qin: right side of center console). Visually check the connector is fully inserted, confirm the locking mechanism (CPA lock) is intact, and gently pull the wiring harness to confirm it is secure.
- 3Wiring harness and terminal inspection: Disconnect the battery negative terminal. Wait at least 90 seconds to discharge system capacitors (prevents accidental airbag deployment). Unplug the switch connector. Inspect terminals for oxidation, backing out, or enlarged sockets. Treat with electrical contact cleaner. Inspect the wiring harness outer sheath for signs of abrasion.
- 4Switch function test: Remove the switch and use a multimeter to measure the resistance in the ON and OFF positions. Compare the readings with the repair manual specifications (typically 2.0-2.5 kΩ in the ON position and 4.5-5.0 kΩ in the OFF position, tolerance ±5%). Verify the switch operating torque is normal and check for binding.
- 5Circuit continuity and insulation test: Use a multimeter to measure signal wire continuity (resistance <1Ω) between the switch connector and the SRS ECU connector (usually located under the center console or floor center). Measure insulation to ground and power (>10MΩ). Inspect the instrument panel frame for interference points.
- 6ECU and Calibration Verification: If wiring and switch are normal, check the SRS ECU software version (some pre-2020 models require an upgrade). Verify the correct front passenger airbag status in the vehicle configuration code (VIN configuration). If necessary, replace the ECU and perform online programming.
- 7System verification and testing: After restoring connections, turn the ignition switch to ON and confirm the instrument cluster airbag warning light turns off after the self-check (approximately 6 seconds). Use the diagnostic tool to read the data stream. Operate the switch and verify the 'Passenger Airbag Cutoff Switch' status toggles between 'Enabled/Disabled'. Finally, perform the SRS system cycle test.
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